This was conveyed by Erjan Fikry Antari, S.Pd., M.Si., Manager of Finance at the USU Directorate of Finance. He explained that UKT is the tuition fee paid by students each semester as a contribution to higher education financing. The fee is fixed for each semester and covers academic needs in accordance with applicable regulations.

According to him, USU’s UKT system is designed to take into account the economic capacity of each student’s family. As a result, students enrolled in the same study program may be assigned different UKT categories based on their financial conditions. This differs from school tuition fees at the primary and secondary education levels, which are generally uniform and do not involve a comprehensive assessment of economic capacity.

“USU is committed to providing a more equitable and proportional education financing system. Therefore, UKT assessments are based on verified and validated data to ensure they accurately reflect the economic conditions of students and their families in an objective and accountable manner,” he said.

The verification process considers various indicators, including family income, employment information, housing ownership status, residential conditions, the number of siblings currently pursuing higher education, school tuition records, and supporting socioeconomic documents. Students are expected to provide accurate and complete information, supported by relevant documentation when necessary.

Erjan emphasized that the purpose of collecting these documents is not to evaluate students’ personal lives, but rather to ensure that UKT assessments are based on valid, objective, and accountable data.

If the verification process finds that submitted information is incomplete, inconsistent, or insufficient, the verification team may recommend adjustments to the assigned UKT category. This measure is intended to ensure that tuition assessments are not based on unverified information.

However, students who believe that their assigned UKT category does not accurately reflect their financial circumstances are provided with an appeal mechanism. Through this process, students may revise their information, submit additional supporting documents, or provide further explanations regarding their economic condition.

Erjan also clarified that family loans or personal debts are not considered primary indicators in UKT assessments because borrowing practices vary significantly among households and do not always objectively reflect financial capacity. Likewise, educational expenses for siblings in primary or secondary school are currently not included in the assessment criteria; only siblings simultaneously enrolled in higher education are taken into account.

He reiterated that the primary goal of the UKT system is to provide a tuition structure that is fair, proportional, and accountable, while ensuring students have the opportunity to raise concerns when their circumstances are not fully reflected in the initial assessment.

“USU continues to provide an appeal mechanism as part of its commitment to ensuring that UKT assessments are not solely based on initial system data. Through this process, students can update information, submit clarifications, and provide additional evidence so that tuition assessments more accurately reflect their actual economic conditions,” he concluded.

Through this mechanism, USU hopes that the UKT assessment process can be carried out in accordance with the principles of fairness, transparency, and alignment with each student's economic circumstances.

The session featured Mrs. Nur Fatmah Syarbini, Country Director Indonesia of UNSW Sydney, as the keynote speaker. The event served as an information-sharing forum on study and scholarship opportunities in Australia while also strengthening international collaboration between USU and UNSW Sydney.

In her opening remarks, the Director of the Directorate of Cooperation and Internationalization, Prof. Dr. dr. Dewi Masyithah Darlan, DAP&E, MPH, Sp.Park., stated that opportunities to study abroad represent valuable prospects for both students and lecturers to enhance their academic quality and global competitiveness.

“This opportunity should be utilized to the fullest, as it can broaden perspectives, enrich experiences, and improve the academic quality of both students and lecturers,” she said.

During her presentation, Mrs. Nur Fatmah Syarbini, Country Director – Indonesia, UNSW Division of Education & Student Experience, UNSW Sydney, emphasized the importance of thorough preparation when applying for international scholarships. She explained that academic excellence, relevant experience, and English language proficiency are key factors in the selection process.

“Make sure you have a strong academic record, relevant experience in your field of study, and sufficient English proficiency to become a competitive scholarship candidate,” she explained.

Mrs. Nur Fatmah Syarbini also encouraged students not to delay their preparations until the application deadline approaches.

“Start preparing now—don’t wait until the last minute. If you are well prepared early on, your chances of success will be much greater,” she added.

Through this event, USU continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing the internationalization of education and encouraging students to be better prepared to compete on a global stage.

The program aims to provide young people with opportunities to learn and broaden their international perspectives through discussions on International SDGs Development. In addition to serving as a platform for exchanging ideas, the event also functions as a competition where Indonesian youth can present innovative and creative solutions that support sustainable development and contribute to national progress.

In the competition, USU student Mytha Nur Anggrainy from the Development Economics Study Program, Class of 2023, joined a team consisting of Muhammad Azmi Auf, team leader and a student of the Master's Program in Educational Management at Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Kalijaga, and Nur Ikhlas from the International Relations Study Program at Universitas Al-Azhar Indonesia, Class of 2023. Together, the team demonstrated strong collaboration and innovation by presenting ideas aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Mytha and her team introduced an innovation in the education sector that addresses SDG 4: Quality Education. Their innovation, called EDUFUND (Education Funding), is a crowdfunding-based platform designed to support educational equity in Indonesia, particularly in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost regions (3T areas).

“The funds collected can be utilized for various educational needs, such as supporting school operations, improving educators’ welfare, and upgrading educational facilities and infrastructure,” she explained.

Through this approach, EDUFUND serves not only as a fundraising platform but also as a collaborative ecosystem that connects educational institutions, communities, and strategic partners within an integrated system.

The platform features three main components:

• Program-Based Donations: Educational institutions can create campaigns based on specific needs, such as operational funding, teacher support, or facility improvement.

• Transparency and Real-Time Reporting: Every donation can be openly monitored by the public.

• Donation Impact Tracking: Donors can directly observe the tangible outcomes of their contributions.

Mytha revealed that her team won two prestigious awards during the competition: 1st Best Project Innovation and 1st Best Presentation. These awards recognized both the innovation they developed and the team’s ability to present their ideas creatively, systematically, and effectively at the international level.

“At the competition, our team successfully earned two awards simultaneously: 1st Best Project Innovation and 1st Best Presentation,” said Mytha.

Furthermore, Mytha stated that the competition provided a valuable platform for learning, personal growth, and developing the confidence to present ideas capable of creating a meaningful impact on society. Through IYEN and IYIS, she sought to contribute her best efforts by presenting ideas aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while also demonstrating that Indonesian youth can play an active role in building a better future.

“Focus on the process, not just the results. I believe that success begins with thorough preparation, a willingness to keep learning, and the courage to share ideas that can create real benefits for society,” she concluded.

This was announced by the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Alumni Relations of USU, Prof. Dr. Poppy Anjelisa Zaitun Hasibuan, S.Si., M.Si., Apt., at the USU Campus on Tuesday (June 2, 2026). According to Prof. Poppy, the USU Independent Student Selection (SMM USU) is a new student admission process independently organized by USU following the announcement of the National Test-Based Selection (SNBT) results.

“SMM USU uses the Computer-Based Written Examination (UTBK) as a valid and reliable instrument for assessing and determining the academic abilities of prospective students,” she said.

In addition to UTBK results, SMM programs generally also require written examinations covering Science and Technology (Saintek) and Social Sciences and Humanities (Soshum). Through this pathway, USU has greater autonomy in determining admission criteria that are tailored to the characteristics of each study program.

Prof. Poppy explained that the Independent Student Selection pathway is intended to fill study program quotas that remain unfilled through the National Achievement-Based Selection (SNBP) and National Test-Based Selection (SNBT) pathways, particularly in programs with lower applicant demand.

For SMM USU 2026, prospective applicants may choose from 65 study programs, covering Bachelor's (S1), Applied Bachelor's (D4), and Diploma Three (D3) levels.

Complete information regarding the admission pathway is available on the USU admissions website at https://penerimaan-terpadu.usu.ac.id.

SMM USU 2026 Schedule

• Online Registration: May 2–June 10, 2026
• Examination Period: June 13–16, 2026
• Results Announcement: June 26, 2026

Registration Fees

• IDR 600,000 for 2 study program choices
• IDR 700,000 for 3 study program choices (must include 1 vocational study program)
• IDR 800,000 for 4 study program choices (must include 1 vocational study program)

Students who are admitted will be required to pay the Single Tuition Fee (UKT) each semester, as well as the Institutional Development Contribution (SPI), a one-time enrollment fee paid at the beginning of their studies.

Registration Requirements

1. Indonesian citizens (WNI) with a National Identity Number (NIK).
2. Final-year SMA/SMK/MA students or equivalent in 2026, or Package C students in 2026, with a maximum age of 25 as of July 1, 2026.
3. Students who have not yet received their diploma must provide a Grade XII student certificate containing:
   • Student identity information (name, class, NISN, and NPSN);
   • A recent color photograph;
   • The signature of the Principal/Head of School; and
   • The school's official stamp/seal on the student's photograph.
4. Graduates of SMA/SMK/MA or equivalent from 2024 and 2025, or Package C graduates from 2024 and 2025, with a maximum age of 25 as of July 1, 2026.
5. Graduates of overseas high schools or equivalent institutions must possess an officially recognized equivalent diploma.

Applicants will take the written examination in person at Universitas Sumatera Utara according to the schedule stated on their examination card.

International Undergraduate Program (Odd Semester 2026/2027)

USU is also accepting applications for the International Undergraduate Program for the 2026/2027 Odd Semester with the following schedule:

• Study Program Selection: April 21–May 31, 2026
• Payment Period: April 21–May 31, 2026
• Biodata Completion and Document Upload: April 21–May 31, 2026
• CBT Examination: May 16–June 2, 2026
• Admission Results Announcement: June 10, 2026

Professional and Postgraduate Admissions

Specialist Dentistry Education Program (Odd Semester 2026/2027)
• Study Program Selection: May 20–June 29, 2026

Faculty of Engineering Professional Program (Odd Semester 2026/2027)
• Study Program Selection: May 18–July 15, 2026

Master’s (S2) and Doctoral (S3) Postgraduate Programs, Academic Year 2026/2027
• Degree Level Selection: May 6–June 29, 2026

This was announced by USU Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Alumni Relations, Prof. Dr. Poppy Anjelisa Zaitun Hasibuan, S.Si., M.Si., Apt., at the USU campus on Wednesday (June 3, 2026).

According to Prof. Poppy, the USU Independent Student Selection (SMM USU) is a new student admission process conducted after the announcement of the National Test-Based Selection (SNBT) results.

The selection uses the Computer-Based Written Examination (UTBK) as a valid and reliable tool to assess and determine applicants' academic abilities. Like other admission programs, the examination covers both Science and Technology (SAINTEK) and Social Sciences and Humanities (SOSHUM) subjects.

The Independent Student Selection (SMM) is intended to fill study program quotas that remain unfilled through the SNBP and SNBT pathways, particularly in programs with lower applicant interest. A total of 65 study programs are available, ranging from Bachelor's (S1), Applied Bachelor's (D4), and Diploma (D3) programs.

Information regarding the admission pathway can be found at: https://penerimaan-terpadu.usu.ac.id

SMM USU Schedule

• Online registration: May 2 – June 10, 2026
• Examination period: June 13 – 16, 2026
• Results announcement: June 26, 2026

Registration Fees

The SMM USU 2026 registration fee depends on the number of study program choices:

• IDR 600,000 for 2 study program choices
• IDR 700,000 for 3 study program choices (must include 1 vocational program)
• IDR 800,000 for 4 study program choices (must include 1 vocational program)

After being admitted, students will be required to pay the Single Tuition Fee (UKT) each semester and the Institutional Development Contribution (SPI), a one-time enrollment fee paid at the beginning of their studies.

Registration Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Indonesian citizens (WNI) with a National Identity Number (NIK).
2. Final-year SMA/SMK/MA students or equivalent in 2026, or Package C participants in 2026, with a maximum age of 25 years as of July 1, 2026.
3. Students who have not yet received their diploma must provide a Grade 12 student certificate containing:
   • Identity details (name, class, NISN, and NPSN)
   • A recent color photograph
   • The principal's signature
   • The school stamp/seal placed over the student's photograph
4. Graduates of SMA/SMK/MA or equivalent from 2024 and 2025, or Package C graduates from 2024 and 2025, with a maximum age of 25 years as of July 1, 2026.
5. Graduates of overseas high schools or equivalent institutions must possess an officially recognized and accredited equivalent diploma.

Serving as the ceremony inspector, USU Rector Prof. Dr. Muryanto Amin, S.Sos., M.Si., delivered remarks in commemoration of Pancasila Day 2026.

In the message of the Head of the Pancasila Ideology Development Agency (BPIP), Prof. Drs. K.H. Yudian Wahyudi, M.A., Ph.D., which was read by the USU Rector, it was emphasized that the commemoration of Pancasila Day is more than an annual ceremonial event. Rather, it is a moment of reflection to ensure that the spirit and values of Pancasila continue to live within every Indonesian.

“Pancasila Day serves as a moment of reflection to ensure that the noble values of Pancasila remain alive in the soul of every Indonesian,” said the USU Rector while reading the message.

The 2026 Pancasila Day commemoration carries the theme, “Pancasila: The Unifier of the Nation, the Foundation of World Peace.” This theme highlights that Pancasila is not only the foundation for maintaining Indonesia’s unity and integrity but also a moral value that remains relevant in promoting global peace.

Echoing this message, the Secretary of the USU Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Tamrin, M.Sc., stated in an interview that the commemoration of Pancasila Day holds significant meaning for Universitas Sumatera Utara as a higher education institution. He emphasized that Pancasila embodies national values that must continue to be instilled in all members of the academic community.

“Pancasila contains national values that must continue to be instilled in the entire academic community, as these values serve as the foundation for building unity, justice, and national progress,” he stated.

Prof. Tamrin further expressed his hope that all sectors within USU would become increasingly focused on implementing the values of Pancasila, particularly in efforts to create a just and prosperous society while strengthening the spirit of Indonesian unity.

Through the commemoration of Pancasila Day, USU students are expected to prioritize unity, preserve national cohesion, and contribute to the advancement of the nation through education, science, and technology, which continue to develop across the world.

The national-level championship was attended by karate athletes from universities, dojos, and contingents from various regions across Indonesia. The competition featured two main categories, Kumite and Kata, with divisions based on age groups. During the competition, USU Karate UKM athletes demonstrated their best performance through sportsmanship, discipline, and strong dedication throughout the matches.

These achievements reflect the commitment of USU students in developing their non-academic potential, particularly in karate. Beyond being a competitive event, the championship also served as a platform for developing young athletes to improve technical skills, competitive mindset, and national-level experience.

In the Kumite U-21 Male -67 kg category, Juang Invanteri Buulolo, a Civil Engineering student from the Faculty of Engineering (class of 2024), delivered an outstanding performance and secured 1st Place. He stated that karate is the sport he is most passionate about, supported by his experience in various karate competitions at different levels.

“I have often participated in karate championships, and during my university years I also frequently join karate competitions,” said Juang.

Furthermore, he emphasized that every failure should not be seen as a reason to give up, but rather as part of the process toward success and motivation to become a better version of oneself.

“Never give up on any failure that has happened because failure is delayed success, and we must turn it into motivation to become the best version of ourselves.”

Gold Medal Winners (1st Place):

1. Juang Invanteri Buulolo – 240404071 (Civil Engineering - FT)
2. Cynda Grace Breka Pasaribu – 250401084 (Mechanical Engineering - FT)
3. Chairul Habil Nasution – 251756035 (Tourism Business Management - FV)
4. Damas Nurhidayat – 250306033 (Animal Science - FP)

Silver Medal Winner (2nd Place):

1. Cynda Grace Breka Pasaribu – 250401084 (Mechanical Engineering - FT)

Bronze Medal Winners (3rd Place):

1. Furqanul Faruq – 251000004 (Public Health - FKM)
2. Friska Esi Sarah Panggabean – 251000069 (Public Health - FKM)

The international seminar was conducted in a hybrid format and attended by academics, students, government representatives, and tourism practitioners. The event featured speakers from both Indonesia and abroad to discuss the development of sustainable tourism.

The event was attended by the Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Collaboration of USU, Prof. Dr. Eng. Himsar Ambarita, S.T., M.T.; Associate Professor in Management, School of Business, International University, Vietnam National University in HCMC, Assoc. Prof. Nhat Tan Pham, PhD; and the Director of PUI Sustainable Tourism USU, Prof. Ar. Ir. Nurlisa Ginting, M.Sc., Ph.D., IAI.

Prof. Himsar Ambarita stated that sustainable tourism is an important issue in the development of tourism destinations across countries. According to him, tourism development must consider environmental aspects and community sustainability.

“Tourism does not only generate profit, but must also be responsible for environmental changes and sustainability,” he said.

Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Nhat Tan Pham explained that cross-country collaboration is essential in supporting the development of sustainable tourism. He emphasized that all parties must work together to create a sustainable future for tourism.

“All aspects must collaborate to develop sustainable tourism, not only for today but also for the future,” he said.

In addition, Prof. Nurlisa Ginting stated that the concept of sustainable tourism has become a global issue in tourism development. She emphasized that tourism development cannot be carried out by a single party alone.

“The development of a tourism destination cannot be done by only one actor; all stakeholders must be involved,” she explained.

Through this event, PUI Sustainable Tourism USU is expected to strengthen international collaboration and encourage the development of sustainable and community-empowering tourism destinations in Indonesia.

The event was attended by lecturers and students from the Tourism Business Management and Social Welfare Study Programs as part of FISIP USU’s efforts to strengthen international cooperation.

The Dean of FISIP USU, Dr. Hatta Ridho S.Sos., MSP., stated that the visit from the Vietnam National University delegation represents a shared commitment to improving education, research, and global collaboration.

“This visit from the Vietnam National University delegation is a form of our joint commitment to strengthening cooperation in education, research, and global collaboration,” he said.

According to him, inter-university cooperation is increasingly important amid technological developments and global challenges, as it opens broader opportunities for both students and lecturers.

He also explained that the Global Academic Fellow program is part of the university’s internationalization agenda through collaborative research supported by EQUITY USU funding and the ministry.

“First of all, to improve our academic reputation, the internationalization program has been launched, one of which is in the form of international collaborative research funded by EQUITY USU together with the ministry,” he said.

Through collaboration with Vietnam National University, FISIP USU is exploring various initiatives such as joint research, scientific publications, student exchanges, and joint degree programs in relevant study fields.

In addition, the collaboration also involves the Vocational Faculty of USU, particularly the Tourism Business Management program. The discussion also highlighted ecotourism, including efforts to protect forests and wildlife through sustainable tourism development.

“We also involve the Vocational Faculty, especially in Tourism Business Management, because the theme discussed is ecotourism. The focus is on protecting forests and wildlife so that tourism remains oriented toward sustainability, not just economics,” he added.

The competition brought together participants from various higher education institutions throughout the country. One of the standout participants was Arya Dwi Ardhana Wibowo, a student of the Applied Statistics Program at the Faculty of Vocational Studies, who competed under the theme of Technology and Digital Economy. Arya and his team presented a technology-based innovation designed to improve communication and safety for individuals with hearing impairments.

The innovation was developed to support deaf individuals in their daily activities through a range of inclusive features. Through this project, the team aimed to demonstrate that technological advancements should not only focus on convenience but also promote accessibility for all members of society.

Arya explained that their participation in the competition was driven by a desire to provide practical solutions to social challenges. According to him, competitions serve not only as opportunities to win awards but also as platforms to develop research skills, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork on a national level.

“Participating in competitions is not only about winning, but also about ensuring that the ideas we develop can create a real impact on society. We want to provide relevant solutions, especially for people with hearing impairments who still face limitations in communication and daily safety,” he said.

He also encouraged fellow students not to be afraid to start and to remain consistent throughout the competition process. According to him, even simple ideas can become valuable assets if they offer meaningful benefits.

“Do not be afraid if your idea seems simple. As long as it provides a solution and creates a tangible impact, it can become your greatest strength. Maintaining communication, teamwork, and consistency throughout the process is equally important,” he added.

Arya Team (Applied Statistics Program – Faculty of Vocational Studies)

Team Members:

1. Arya Dwi Ardhana Wibowo (Team Leader)
2. Anazta Rizky Fauzan Siagian
3. Sadina Umeko
4. Cahaya Nahura
5. Ririn Ayundha Putri

Awards:

• Runner-up, Essay Competition
• Gold Medal, Essay Competition (Technology and Digital Economy Category)
• Best Team, Essay Competition

Arjuna Team (Public Health Program – Faculty of Public Health)

Team Members:

1. Arjuna Sembiring (Team Leader)
2. Melky Sedek Arta Sasta
3. Haikal Kesuma Caesar
4. Reno Sagala
5. Alkhis Novrianda Solin

Award:

• Silver Medal, Essay Competition (Nutrition and Health Category)

Abdurrohim Team (Management Program – Faculty of Economics and Business)

Team Members:

1. Abdurrohim (Team Leader)
2. Emir Husein Rangkuti
3. Rolinsah Marbun
4. Yenli Milani Silitonga
5. Clarisse Izabelle Halim

Award:

• Bronze Medal, Essay Competition (Energy and Environment Category)